Binni & Flynn's Owner Grew Up in the Business

Binni & Flynn's, a Mexican-American bar and restaurant, re-opened in Berwyn last month after a 12-year hiatus. Patch stopped in recently to get to know the owner and the restaurant she revived.

Name: Meridith Coyle

Owner of: Binni & Flynn's

Year Restaurant Was Established: The original Binni & Flynn's in Gateway Shopping Center was established in 1980 by Coyle's parents, Richard and Irene Coyle. They opened five Binni & Flynn's in the Philadelphia area. The last Binni & Flynn's closed in 2001. Coyle resurrected the restaurant in February 2013.

Hometown: Berwyn

Work History: Coyle was a bus girl, waitress and hostess at the original Binni & Flynn's restaurant. While attending University of Delaware, she came home every other weekend to bartend for the bar/restaurant. She worked there until 18 years ago and then started her own business—first as Meridith's Catering and selling her food at farmers markets, then Meridith's Bistro,  and now at Binni & Flynn's and her recent acquisition, Fresh Ideas.

Favorite Meal: Coyle says she grew up on the Arroz con Pollo, a simple dish that her parents used to serve at the original Binni & Flynn's. Now, she's into the spinach enchiladas, chile rellenos, and the crab and shrimp suiza.

Favorite Drink: The margaritas, of course. According to Coyle, it's the cheapest drink on the menu at $7.50, and the margarita is made with fresh-squeezed juices.

Why did you get into the business?

"I grew up in the business, but I studied social work. That was my first true passion. When my dad got sick and passed away, that's when I took over the business. And I loved it. ... I was really good at this, and I loved the people. It's very cool to see this place come back to the area. My parents started it and my mom now helps me run the floor occasionally. My three daughters are also waitresses, bus girls and hostesses here. It's a real family business."

What do you like about the area?

"I consider the people here as my friends. Most people come in here with a story about the old Binni & Flynn's. It brings back great memories. I give back to the community, because the people here have been good to my family."

What's next?

"This is my final business. This and Fresh Ideas is my five-year plan."

Plug: All the menu items are homemade and locally sourced with fresh ingredients. Happy hour is Monday through Saturday from 5 to 7 p.m. with $2 appetizers, and also all day Sunday. There are daily drink specials. 

See also:

The New Binni & Flynn's: A Look Inside